Fire Destroys Eyalim Resort and Tzameret Wood Center in Gilead, Owners Seek Public Support for Rebuilding

The Eyalim resort and Tzameret Wood Center in Gilead, located in the West Bank, were completely destroyed by a fire that broke out on a Saturday afternoon. Yehoyada 'Yoyo' Cohen, co-owner of both businesses, recounted the chaotic moments of the blaze, the efforts to contain the flames, and the overwhelming community support that followed. The fire consumed the resort, a wood warehouse, and a cultural event space, leaving significant damage and uncertainty about the future of the enterprises.

Cohen described how the fire started while his family was having a Sabbath meal, forcing them to evacuate quickly. He and volunteers tried to save the property, including the wood center, but the fire spread rapidly, forcing them to retreat for safety. Cohen suffered from smoke inhalation and anxiety during the fight against the fire. Despite the devastation, he emphasized the businesses were more than income sources; they represented local creativity, Hebrew labor, and Zionist values, with all workers and suppliers being Jewish.

The owners face challenges in securing insurance compensation and government aid due to unclear land status and regulatory definitions. Cohen criticized the state's delay in making decisive decisions regarding support and insurance claims. Nonetheless, he expressed determination to rebuild, framing the restoration as a communal and national effort rather than a private one.

Cohen urged the public to continue supporting the recovery campaign, highlighting the importance of solidarity for the land and people of Israel. The community has already rallied with volunteers and donations, but ongoing assistance is crucial for the businesses' revival and the continuation of their cultural and economic role in Gilead.

Summary: A devastating fire destroyed the Eyalim resort and Tzameret Wood Center in Gilead, West Bank, prompting owners Yehoyada Cohen and family to seek public donations and support for rebuilding amid insurance and regulatory challenges. Despite the loss, Cohen remains committed to restoring the businesses as symbols of local creativity and Jewish labor.

Points: - Fire completely destroyed Eyalim resort and Tzameret Wood Center in Gilead on a Saturday afternoon. - Yehoyada Cohen and volunteers fought the blaze but could not save the properties. - Businesses symbolized Hebrew labor and local creativity, employing only Jewish workers. - Insurance and government aid are complicated by unclear land and regulatory status. - Cohen calls for public donations and support to rebuild as a communal Zionist project. - Community volunteers and donors have already provided significant assistance.

Topic: security israel_relevant: true Entities: {"people": ["Yehoyada Cohen"], "organizations": [], "places": ["Eyalim", "Tzameret Wood Center", "Gilead", "West Bank"]}